Research Advocacy Training and Support Program Fight Colorectal Cancer’s Research Advocacy Training and Support (RATS) program trains colorectal cancer advocates to become the most educated patient voice at the research table. Through this program, participants learn all about colorectal cancer research, from prevention and cancer biology to treatment, survivorship, and palliative care. After completing training, research advocates work in partnership with both academic institutions and cancer partners to improve the scientific field by lending their experience and expertise to the research process. Various panels research advocates serve on currently include: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Department of Defense (DoD) Peer Reviewed Cancer Research Program (PRCRP) National Cancer Institute (NCI) Local Institutional Review Boards (IRBs) State Cancer Coalitions RATS graduates are well-versed, highly-skilled, and caring people who are lifelong learners and contributors to the research process. They’re committed to promoting achievement within the research community from bench science to community participatory research programs. Meet our RATS Program Members Kimberley Bush-Klinefelter Research Advocate Anita Mitchell Isler Research Advocate Elizabeth Dennis Research Advocate Karen Wehling Research Advocate Kimberly Schoolcraft Research Advocate Julie Barreau Research Advocate Wenora Johnson Research Advocate Ben White Research Advocate Annie Delores Research Advocate Anna Rappaport Research Advocate Allison Rosen Research Advocate Lee Jones Research Advocate Yasmeem Watson Research Advocate Curt Pesmen Research Advocate Join the Research Advocacy Training and Support Program The RATS program is open to anyone who has been impacted by colorectal cancer (survivors, caregivers, and loved ones). This is a unique program focused on the interests and needs of colorectal cancer patients and advocates. The program is limited (based on funding), but we select applicants who represent diverse backgrounds and interests, and are committed to dedicating at least two years to the program (a 24-month commitment is required). Qualifications All our research advocates need to have or be willing to develop the skills listed: Flexible and ability to work in teams Communicate effectively and listen actively Be comfortable speaking in front of groups of people Travel overnight several times during the project Computer proficiency using programs such as Microsoft Word, PowerPoint and PDF documents Ability to take initiative and seek opportunities Applications are currently closed! get notified when applications open “A person who serves as a link between patients and scientific researchers. Research advocates help patients understand scientific information and research findings that may help them. They may also bring a patient perspective on research activities to scientific advisory boards and committees.” The National Cancer Institute Thanks to our Sponsors silver